17th of May in Bergen 2026
Norway's Constitution Day in Bergen: children's parades, buekorps, concerts and events. Complete guide from 50 local sources.
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Bergen celebrates Norway's Constitution Day (17th of May) with children's parades through the city centre, buekorps marching brigades — a tradition unique to Bergen — concerts at Torgallmenningen and Festplassen, and family activities across the city.
17th of May (syttende mai) is Norway's Constitution Day and Bergen's biggest celebration. The children's parade (barnetog) starts at Festplassen and winds through the city centre, while Bergen's unique buekorps — children's marching brigades with drums and banners — parade from early morning. Torgallmenningen is the main gathering point, with speeches, ice cream and hot dogs.
Bergen has a distinctive 17th of May culture with around 30 active buekorps, something found in no other Norwegian city. Celebrations run from morning church services to evening concerts and public festivities. Norwegians dress in bunads (traditional folk costumes) and the atmosphere is festive from dawn to night.
Gåri collects 17th of May events from over 50 local sources — venues, cultural institutions, festival organisers and ticketing platforms. This page is updated daily as the programme approaches. See the family weekend page for child-friendly activities year-round.
What happens on 17th of May in Bergen?
Bergen celebrates Constitution Day with children's parades, buekorps marching brigades, concerts at Torgallmenningen and Festplassen, and activities across the city. Gåri lists all events from 50 local sources.
What time does the children's parade start in Bergen?
The children's parade (barnetog) in Bergen typically starts at Festplassen around 10:00 and goes through the city centre. Buekorps marching brigades start from early morning, often from 07:00.
What is buekorps?
Buekorps are children's marching brigades with drums, banners and uniforms — a tradition unique to Bergen dating back to the 1800s. Around 30 active buekorps march through the city on 17th of May.
Is 17th of May in Bergen free?
Yes, the children's parade, buekorps marches and most public celebrations are free. Some concerts and events require tickets.
What can families do on 17th of May in Bergen?
Families can watch the children's parade and buekorps marches, visit Festplassen with activities for kids, and enjoy ice cream and hot dogs along the route. Many museums offer free entry.